July 4, 1976: The July 4th Coalition Highlights American Revolution’s Unfinished Business

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WRL’S Continental Walk took place during the U.S. bicentennial year. WRL was also active with the anti-establishment July 4th Coalition, which highlighted the American Revolution’s unfinished business to create a just and equal society. More than 30 organizations made up the Coalition, and 40,000 joined the march and rally in Philadelphia, led by Native Americans and including Puerto Rican socialists, Vietnam veterans, women’s rights advocates, Black Panthers, and unemployed workers.

The July 4th Coalition’s actions in Philadelphia were covered in both WRL News (Jul-Aug 1976) and WIN magazine (July 15, 1976, Volume 12, #25).

Wounded Knee group in July 4th Coalition march. Photo by Grace Hedemann
During July 4th Coalition march in Philadelphia the Continental Walk, including Walk staff members Jim Tindall, Vickie Leonard (holding banner), Jim Peck (WRL staff), Murray Rosenblith (WIN staff in cowboy hat), [unknown], [unknown], Maureen O’Donnell (holding banner). Photo by Grace Hedemann
At the July 4th rally following the march, a Continental Walk table was staffed by organizers Maureen O’Donnell (standing left), [unknown], Vickie Leonard (at table), Ed Hedemann (at table), Jim Tindall. Photo by Grace Hedemann (from WRL News, Jul-Aug 1976)
Workers groups in July 4th Coalition march. Photo by Grace Hedemann

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